This week for Cyber Security Awareness Month we’re reminded that no matter what field you’re in it’s crucial to store important data securely. In the past year both SamSam and WannaCry ransomware, as well as many others, have damaged and held countless files hostage. Keep reading to see what we’ve learned from these attacks.
1st thing we’ve learned from ransomware attacks: be prepared!
- FixMeStick identifies and removes ransomware before it is active by ensuring your machine is clean. However, it can’t decrypt your files, so be sure to run regular FixMeStick scans.
- Picture Keeper is your digital vault. It’s a USB drive that automatically backs up your precious memories– just plug it into your tablet, phone, or computer and back-up so you always have your photos in a safe place.
- Having a dual defense against ransomware with FixMeStick and Picture Keeper is your best way to be prepared.
2nd thing we’ve learned from ransomware attacks: update your devices & software.
- Ransomware and other malware exploit flaws to make systems vulnerable, and software companies come out with updates to patch these loopholes. Make sure you have this Microsoft Windows patch to protect against WannaCry.
3rd thing we’ve learned from ransomware attacks: learn why they happened & improve.
- SamSam Ransomware
- In 2018 SamSam began by targeting American healthcare providers then it honed in on the city of Atlanta causing havoc to residents and the police department.
- SamSam is known to demand “reasonable ransoms” and return stolen data so victims tend to be more willing to fork over money, but remember, this is why you should never pay.
- WannaCry
- It exploits a flaw in Windows and has gone international, harassing organizations in over 74 countries and continuing to morph despite attempts to stop it.
- Malwarebytes Labs director Adam Kujawa says, “the spread is immense…I’ve never seen anything like this before. This is nuts.” WannaCry infects computers primarily through email, via phishing campaigns so remember not to click on suspicious links from unknown senders.
Be to sure to share this article with your friends so they know to use FixMeStick & Picture Keeper to safeguard their information and keep their device clean!
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